In KS3 Science we study the following :

building upon the enthusiasm and curiosity developed in key stage two.

providing pupils with the foundations needed to access the more academic approach in later stages of study.

using a practical hands – on approach pupils will be introduced to some of the key ideas in science such as the particle theory, how to measure forces and why are we the same but different.

learning and understanding scientific key terms.

learning how to carry out investigations, analyse data in charts and graphs and draw conclusions based on their findings.

explore a range of scientific ideas and theories drawn from the main sciences

Topics in year 7 include Atoms, elements and compounds, Electricity, Ecosystems, Forces and motion, Growth and reproduction, Levers, moments and pressure, Living Systems, Particles, and Reactions.

Topics in year 8 including Acids and alkalis, Diet and Health, Earth and Atmosphere, Energy, Genetics and evolution, Materials, Photosynthesis, circulation and respiration, Space and Waves

The first term in Year 9 focuses on a smooth transition into KS4 through studying and consolidating the skills necessary for practical element of the GCSE course.

Terms 2 and 3 students will begin the GCSE course.

Assessment

Students’ progress is assessed regularly using a combination of teacher marking and feedback as well as peer and self-assessment (using the set guidelines or criteria)

Home learning will be set and assessed regularly. It will consist of a combination of research activities, past papers questions, or revision/consolidation activities that prepare the student for formal written assessments whilst fostering engagement and stimulation interest.

Learning beyond the classroom/wider learning suggestions

talking to our friends ,parents and grandparents about Science in their lives and how it affects them e.g. builders, gardeners, miners, cooks, people who work in a Science related field;

watching the science, astronomy and natural history programs on the television;

discussing with our peers the technology described in science fiction films, games or books, and which ones do or do not exist

visiting science museums and nature reserves

having a go at the experiments you can do (with permission!) at home

Teachers of KS3 Science

Mrs K Walsh – Head of Department

Miss G Dolan – Head of Year 11

Mrs R Elliott – SENCO

Mr G Pentland – Head of Sixth Form College and Assistant Headteacher

Mr D Holmes – Head of Year 10

Miss A Stainthorpe – Teacher of Science

Miss G Howarth – Teacher of Science

Mr L Austen – Senior Science Technician

Mr J Copley – Science Technician

In KS4, what do we learn about?

At Key Stage 4, Science is studied either via the Combined Science route or the Triple Science route (3 GCSEs).

Combined Science introduces students to fundamental ideas in scientific theory. It covers equal amounts of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. All 3 components are compulsory at GCSE.

The course will include the development and application of practical skills as well as the application of knowledge and understanding to answer scientific questions and solve scientific problems.

This course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through 6 papers (2 per subject, 1hr 15 mins each) and will result in 2 Combined Science GCSEs.

Triple Science is taken by students who select it through the option process in Year 9. This provides more Science teaching and learning time. The fundamental ideas, concepts and skill are the same as in Combined Science, therefore the units taught are the same. However, students are required to study certain topics in greater depth in the addition time provided.

This course is assessed at the end of Year 11 through 6 papers (2 per subject, 1hr 45 mins each) and will result in 3 separate Science GCSEs, i.e. Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

A level Sciences can be accessed through either the Combined or Triple Science routes. However, the addition teaching and learning in the triple course provides a stronger platform for this transition and maybe of benefit to students when applying for Science courses beyond A level.

How is students’ learning assessed?

During the course of each unit, students will receive regular formal assessment that will be teacher marked and will incorporate feedback to facilitate progress. They will also use self and peer marking using the guidelines so that they develop a greater understanding of assessment criteria. Practical work will assessed via written exam questions alongside the theory.

Teacher marked homework will be accompanied by written and /or verbal feedback.

Internal assessments take place in line with the school assessment calendar.

How can students learn beyond the classroom?

External assessments as mentioned above.

Regularly consolidate the work completed in class and discuss any areas of concern/difficulty with an appropriate adult.

Gain some work experience in the area of Science. Talk to family and friends who work in a science related field, (mechanics, nurses, electricians, physiotherapists…) or who have studied science.

Contact and look for courses run by universities during the summer term .There are a number of local universities now offering open days and Taster events specifically aimed at 13-16 year olds.